| Common Canine Diseases |
| Rabies |
Of all animal diseases, rabies is probably the most feared. The rabies virus attacks the brain and is always fatal. Most pets are exposed to rabies by bites from wild animals, particularly skunks, raccoons, bats and foxes. The disease can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected pet. Vaccination of all dogs and cats is the most effective means of control. |
| Canine Distemper |
This highly contagious viral disease is found wherever dogs are found. It affects the respiratory and nervous system and is often fatal. Primary vaccination should begin at 6-12 weeks of age since dogs often contract the disease at an early age. |
| Canine Parvovirus (CPV) |
This contagious viral disease usually causes severe diarrhea and vomiting in dogs of all ages but is especially deadly in puppies. |
| Canine Coronavirus (CCV) |
Coronavirus is highly contagious and can weaken dogs by causing severe diarrhea and vomiting. The disease is sometimes confused with parvovirus. The two diseases may occur simultaneously in which case symptoms are more severe. |
| Canine Parainfluenza |
This viral respiratory disease is often partly responsible for "kennel cough" in dogs. Infection can be severe in young puppies. Parainfluenza protection is often included in distemper-parvo vaccines. |
| Canine Adenovirus Type 1 & Type 2 |
Canine Adenovirus Type 1 infection causes infectious hepatitis and may lead to severe kidney damage. Type 2 can be a complicating factor in kennel cough. Vaccines are available that protect against both types of adenovirus. |
| Canine Leptospirosis |
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease carried by many wild animals. A dog can contract the disease from infected animals or by drinking contaminated water. Yearly vaccination limits your dog's chances of acquiring the disease. |
| Canine Bordetella |
Frequently involved in kennel cough complex, this bacterial infection may occur simultaneously with distemper, adenovirus type 2 infection, parainfluenza and other respiratory infections. |
| Canine Borreliosis (Lyme Disease) |
Borreliosis, or Lyme Disease, is an infection caused by a bacteria which is spread primarily by the painless bite of an infected tick. Symptoms of Borreliosis in the dog include fever, lethargy, muscle stiffness, depression and lack of appetite. In more severe cases, lamesness occurs as a result of severe musculoskeletal or arthritic type joint pain. |
| Canine Giardiasis |
Giardiasis in dogs, cats and humans is caused by a waterborne parasite called Giardia lamblia. The parasite is found in untreated water, i.e. puddles, ponds and creeks. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, weight loss, fever, dehydration and nausea. |
